Moral Argument

Introduction

This argument seeks to show that in the existence of God we find the best explanation for our experience of moral consciousness.

In the moral behaviour of people is the proof of God’s existence.

We are good because God tells us to be.

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Aquinas

Fourth of Aquinas’ Five Ways to prove the existence of God

This is an entry into the moral argument

Based on Plato’s eternal forms. The contingent realities of which the human mind is aware are merely pale copes of a greater, unseen reality which is eternal. the goodness found in humans and the world is a reflection of the perfect goodness of God. God is perfect in his very being

Does not suggest how good can be defined. All we know is that God is a supreme source of it and it is his very essence to be perfectly good

Does not specifically refer to morality itself but truth, nobility, goodness and value.

We have a concept of what these things are so these ideas must come from somewhere

There must be something that is most true, more valuable, the most noble and the most good. For Christian theologians, this is God

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Kant

There is a moral law which cannot fulfil its goal unless God exists. God is required for morality. God’s existence is implied by human moral experience

Everybody has to seek the summon bonum

The duty to promote the highest good is called the categorical imperative. Following this principle means acting morally

Necessity of an after-life in which the achievement of the summum bonum could be accomplished

Moral behaviour is not invalid without God but if the goal of morality is to be achieved then God is demanded to bring it about.

Weaknesses of Kant:

Logical? Kant argues ought implies can yet he states that humans ought to bring about the summum bonum however they are unable to.

summum bonum cannot be proven.

He states that virtue must be rewarded but claims that a moral action is performed independently of any reward or goal.

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Freud

Superego – subconscious set off moral controls. Influenced by our parents and society.

Religion is an illusion based on human wishes. It meets certain psychological needs.

It can govern and regulate human behaviour. Based on what we want to be true as opposed to what is true – ‘wish fulfilment’. It is a neurosis that stops people thinking as adults and taking responsibility for their own lives.